The Loadstar Podcast

A profitable quote does not always become a profitable shipment. In this episode of The Loadstar Podcast, host Charlotte Goldstone asks where freight forwarders lose money between booking and delivery, and what they can do to protect their margins. Emma Crumpton, enterprise solutions director at Portcast, explains how detention and demurrage charges, mismatched buy and sell rates, and costs that are never billed back to customers can erode the return on a job. The problem is often the volume and complexity of information operators must manage across carriers, ports and contracts. Ian Powell, tech and solutions director at Metro, brings the forwarders' perspective. He discusses the cost of manual processing and rework, and describes how Metro pilots technology before rolling it out across its operations. The conversation also examines what AI can realistically do with shipment data. Both guests argue that reliable data, clear processes and human oversight matter more than simply adding another tool. For forwarders wondering where to start, their advice is to identify the cause of a margin leak first, then decide whether a process change or technology can fix it.

What's keeping Transpacific freight rates elevated as the peak season approaches? This week, Gavin van Marle joins us to discuss the latest rate movements, the changing US-Canada trade relationship and a significant leadership shake-up at PIL.  Plus, Awery's Tristan Koch joins us to examine the latest airfreight data, the continuing decline in China-Europe ecommerce volumes, shifting rates and capacity, and how new technology could help the industry navigate an increasingly volatile market.  All this and more, in under 20 minutes on this week's News in Brief Podcast!  

Airfreight markets are facing constant disruption, from shifting ecommerce flows and changing rates to tight capacity and growing uncertainty across major trade lanes. In this special sponsored episode, Tristan Koch, Chief Commercial Officer at Awery Aviation Software, joins us to discuss the latest China-Europe ecommerce trends, how airlines and forwarders are responding to volatile demand, and why different booking platforms can show very different rates and capacity for the same flight. He also explains how Awery's new AI-powered data search and reporting functionality can help air cargo professionals make sense of an increasingly complex market. Sponsored by Awery Aviation Software.

Transpacific freight rates are on the rise — but is capacity really the problem? This week, Stephanie Loomis of Noatum Logistics joins us to unpack the latest rate increases, booking risks and service reliability, as well as the shifting outlook for Asia-Europe trade and global vessel capacity.  Plus, Loadstar Publisher Alex Lennane looks at the latest upheaval in airfreight, from Amazon's network reshuffle to airlines redrawing freighter routes amid tight aircraft availability. And we explore whether shippers are outgrowing the traditional 3PL model.  All this and more, in under 20 minutes on this week's News in Brief Podcast!  

This week on News in Brief, we look at Hapag-Lloyd's latest proposals in its bid for ZIM, the impact of renewed tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, and the resilience of global container trade despite ongoing disruption, plus what all the external factors mean for rates.  We also bring you key takeaways from the EU CBEC Ecommerce Forum in Liege with Rotate's Jonathan Mellink, including the impact of the EU's new low-value parcel customs rules, changes in ecommerce volumes and air cargo capacity, and Rotate's outlook for demand over the next 12 months.

Geopolitcal tensions, port congestion and shifting freight rates dominate this week's News in Brief.   Host Charlotte Goldstone chats to ex-liner exec Nils Roche about the latest US-Iran escalation, the impact on the Strait of Hormuz and the return of shipping via Suez, alongside berthing disruption at Shanghai and Ningbo.  We also examine falling Asia-Europe air freight capacity following the EU's de minimis changes, the latest rate movements, and growing concerns over Russian and Middle Eastern airspace.  Plus, Loadstar Publisher Alex Lennane discusses her recent interview with WiseTech Global CEO Zubin Appoo and rounds up the biggest stories on The Loadstar Premium. 

The freight forwarding industry is changing fast, with consolidation, growing competition from major carriers and integrators, and a volatile geopolitical landscape reshaping the market.  In this episode of The Loadstar Podcast, we speak to Dan March, CEO of WCAworld, about what these changes mean for small and medium-sized forwarders. Are SMEs being squeezed out by industry consolidation, or does their size give them an advantage when it comes to agility, flexibility and personalised service?  Dan also shares his perspective on the biggest challenges facing independent forwarders, the opportunities emerging from today's disruption, and how the sector could evolve over the next decade, all in just 20 minutes.  

What's really driving freight rates in 2026? In this episode of The Loadstar Podcast, we're joined by Judah Levine, Head of Research at Freightos, to discuss the latest trends across global ocean and airfreight markets.  Judah shares his insight on rate movements across the major lanes, the balance between supply and demand and the impact of external factors on freight markets. We also discuss the shifting nature of peak seasons, when the current Transpacific peak could ease, and what shippers should consider when negotiating contracts.  Plus, we look ahead to the rest of the year, including the prospects for a Q4 airfreight peak and what the market could have in store for shippers and forwarders. 

What do the first six months of 2026 tell us about the state of global container shipping? In this episode of The Loadstar Podcast, Charlotte Goldstone is joined by Container Trades Statistics CEO Nigel Pusey and The Loadstar managing editor Gavin van Marle to dig into the numbers behind the biggest stories shaping the market. From an 8.9% surge in Far East exports and continued growth in intra-Asia trade, to tariffs, shifting sourcing strategies and the impact of the Middle East conflict, the trio explore how geopolitics and disruption have reshaped global container flows. They also revisit predictions made earlier this year - including whether the European peak season came early, how long Red Sea diversions would last, and whether carriers would begin returning to Suez - before looking ahead to what could shape the second half of 2026.

While importers are beginning to receive refunds after the US Supreme Court struck down the original IEEPA tariff regime, the Trump administration has already introduced a new Section 301 tariff framework targeting imports from 60 economies.  In this episode of The Loadstar Podcast, host Charlotte Goldstone is joined by Trade Force Multiplier CEO Cindy Allen to unpack the latest developments. They discuss how the refund process is progressing, why the new tariff regime is legally different, the biggest compliance risks facing importers, whether US Customs and Border Protection has the resources to enforce the new rules, and how businesses can build resilience in an increasingly unpredictable trade environment.  Whether you're a freight forwarder, customs broker, importer or shipper, this episode offers practical insights into what you should be reviewing before your next shipment.

In this episode of The Loadstar Podcast News in Brief, we unpack another busy week across global supply chains. Chief analyst Peter Sand of Xeneta joins us to discuss the latest fallout from tensions in the Middle East, why container lines are continuing Red Sea transits despite ongoing security risks, and what the recent wave of emergency surcharges really means for shippers. We also examine the latest ocean freight rate trends, whether this year's peak season has already reached its high point, and what cargo owners should consider when planning contracts for the months ahead. Then, Loadstar publisher Alex Lennane breaks down the latest financial results from major logistics players, including CMA CGM, Kuehne+Nagel, CH Robinson and Geodis, highlighting what's driving air cargo performance as demand continues to outpace capacity. She also discusses Project44 CEO Jett McCandless' claim that AI could begin to erode CargoWise's dominance by enabling forwarders to build smarter, more flexible software ecosystems.

This week on News in Brief, we unpack the latest wave of US tariffs on Canada and Brazil and what they mean for global supply chains. Gavin van Marle explains why transpacific shipping is entering uncharted territory, explores the latest developments in ports and terminal operators - from Santos to the Panama Canal - and examines how carriers are keeping rates resilient despite ongoing overcapacity concerns. We also speak to Neutral Air Partner CEO Christos Spyrou about the changing dynamics of air freight contracts, the growing influence of SME forwarders and the impact of US tariffs on air cargo. All this and more in less than 25 minutes!

In this one-off explainer episode, we're joined by Mathew Dib, duty director of Marine Operations at Pole Star Global, to explore how El Niño, unusually warm Atlantic waters and evolving weather patterns could shape the months ahead. We discuss what ship operators should be watching this year, and how real-time decision-making is becoming more important than ever.  If your curious about how extreme weather events develop and how they could impact your supply chain then look no further! 

Escalating tensions around the Strait of Hormuz are once again rippling through global supply chains, driving congestion, tightening capacity and reshaping freight rates. This week, Charlotte Goldstone is joined by Gavin van Marle to unpack the latest developments on the India-Europe trade, volatile ocean freight markets, schedule reliability and the strategies carriers are adopting to navigate persistent port congestion.  Later, BoxC chief sales officer Craig Strickland explains what the EU's new low-value import duties and IATA's Direct Air Waybill rules mean for freight forwarders, customs brokers and importers. Plus, we examine the latest air freight market conditions, rates and practical advice for businesses adapting to a changing regulatory landscape.  Click here for The Loadstar's new State of AI in Supply Chain 2026 report, revealing how freight forwarders and customs brokers are putting AI to work - and where they're seeing real operational gains. 

This week on the News in Brief podcast, we unpack one of the biggest changes to air freight liability in decades as new IATA direct air waybill rules shift greater responsibility onto freight forwarders - sparking a fierce dispute with FIATA and raising major concerns across the industry.  We also examine Maersk's dramatic upgrade to its earnings forecast and what it reveals about today's container shipping market, from surcharges and soaring freight rates to capacity management and worsening port congestion. Joining us, ShiftX UK founder Keith Gaskin shares his perspective on the pressures facing shippers and how the market is evolving.  Plus, Loadstar publisher Alex Lennane discusses the implications of the new IATA rules, the end of the EU's de minimis exemption for low-value imports, insights from Hactl in Paris, and the week's top premium stories.  All in under 25 minutes!  

This week on News in Brief, host Charlotte Goldstone is joined by The Loadstar's managing editor Gavin van Marle and publisher Alex Lennane for a wide-ranging look at the stories that shaped global freight markets over the last seven days.  From the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and yet another round of ocean carrier surcharges to allegations of a container manufacturing cartel and fresh takeover rumours involving MSC and Hapag-Lloyd, Mr van Marle breaks down the latest developments in container shipping.  Meanwhile, Ms Lennane examines the fallout from a major CargoWise outage, the shifting balance between ecommerce and general cargo following US de minimis changes, India's growing importance as an airfreight hub, and what shippers are really thinking about rates, capacity and contracts in today's uncertain market.  All you might have missed from the news cycle recapped in under 20 minutes! 

In this episode, host Charlotte Goldstone is joined by two leading industry voices to unpack the biggest stories shaping global supply chains.  First, Charlotte speaks with James Hookham, director of the Global Shippers' Forum, about growing shipper frustration over ocean freight pricing, opaque carrier surcharges and the shifting balance of power between carriers and cargo owners. They discuss increasing market concentration among container lines, what it means for competition and resilience, and the potential impact of new US customs enforcement measures on importers.  Later, Loadstar publisher Alex Lennane joins the podcast to explore why Europe continues to struggle to produce freight-tech giants despite a thriving innovation ecosystem. They also examine how artificial intelligence is transforming freight forwarding operations, the rapid growth of pharmaceutical air cargo services, and why AI-related shipments are becoming one of air freight's most important growth drivers. Finally, Ms Lennane shares his early thoughts on the latest escalation of tensions around the Strait of Hormuz and the implications for global supply chains.  Tune in for expert analysis of the trends, challenges and opportunities shaping logistics, shipping and air cargo markets worldwide. 

In this episode of The Loadstar Podcast News in Brief, we bring you the latest developments shaping global supply chains, from rising tensions in the Middle East to renewed controversy over ocean freight pricing and the key takeaways from TIACA's Executive Summit. First, Loadstar Managing Editor Gavin van Marle joins us for an update on the container shipping market that examines growing criticism from shippers over carrier pricing practices, as accusations of opportunistic rate increases and "price gouging" resurface amid tightening capacity and market uncertainty. We also take a look at where ocean freight rates are heading and explore the worsening port congestion affecting both China and Europe. Later in the episode, we turn our attention to air cargo. TIACA Director General Glyn Hughes joins us to recap the major talking points from TIACA's Executive Summit and share the findings of the association's latest sustainability survey. We discuss the industry's progress on environmental goals, the challenges that remain, and the key trends shaping the future of air freight.All that and more in this week's episode!

This week on The Loadstar Podcast, Charlotte Goldstone is joined by Noatum Logistics' Stephanie Loomis to unpack the shifting dynamics in ocean freight, from the disappearance of traditional peak season patterns to evolving carrier behaviour amid persistent overcapacity. They also discuss how tariff-driven supply chain adaptations are reshaping global trade routes — and which changes may be here to stay. Later, Alex Lennane returns to examine the latest fallout from Middle East disruption, including the growing pressure on air cargo from the AI boom and helium shortages, why jet fuel fears have eased but costs remain elevated, and the safety allegations facing cargo handler AGI at New York airports. Plus, a roundup of this week's premium stories.

In this episode of The Loadstar Podcast, Charlotte Goldstone is joined by Container Trade Statistics (CTS) CEO Nigel Pusey and Loadstar Managing Editor Gavin van Marle to unpack one of the most turbulent starts to a year the container shipping industry has ever seen. From the fallout of the US Supreme Court ruling against Trump's IEEPA tariffs to the escalating Middle East conflict and closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the trio explores how geopolitics, reroutings, fuel costs and shifting sourcing strategies are reshaping global trade flows in real time. Using CTS Q1 2026 data, they discuss: Why global container volumes still rose 4.4% despite massive disruption The dramatic collapse in Middle East exports following the Hormuz closure How ports like Jeddah, Khor Fakkan and Salalah are emerging as critical bypass hubs The continuing boom in Asia-Europe and secondary trades like sub-Saharan Africa Why European exports continue to struggle Whether US sourcing diversification away from China is now permanent How peak season patterns are changing amid ongoing supply chain instability Plus, Nigel and Gavin revisit the predictions they made earlier this year, share what surprised them most in the numbers, and look ahead to what Q2 could bring — including whether the Red Sea return is officially off the table. Listen now for a data-rich deep dive into the volatility redefining global shipping in 2026.

This week on News in Brief, Charlotte Goldstone and her guests break down the latest developments shaping the freight and logistics market. First, Xeneta senior market analyst Destine Ozuygur joins the podcast to unpack the ongoing Middle East conflict and what the latest developments around the Strait of Hormuz could mean for global supply chains. The discussion explores growing speculation around an early Asia-Europe peak season, concerns over oil prices and blank sailings, carrier Q1 earnings, and the latest movements in ocean freight spot rates.  Later in the episode, The Loadstar's Alex Lennane discusses one of the week's biggest industry stories: DSV's confirmation that CargoWise will be replaced as the backbone of its operations by its in-house Tango platform. Alex also explains the latest leadership changes at Emirates SkyCargo, reactions from Cargolux to the Hormuz crisis, and how current disruption is influencing air cargo rates and capacity.  Plus, a roundup of what caught readers' attention on Premium this week. 

This week's News in Brief dives back into the ongoing disruption in the Middle East, as the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed and oil prices continue to ripple through global supply chains. But while uncertainty persists, there are signs of shifting strategy  with CMA CGM doubling down on Red Sea transits, raising the question of whether other carriers will follow and what that could mean for freight rates.  Charlotte Goldstone is joined by Xeneta's Peter Sand to break down the latest on ocean freight, from the risk of a renewed rate war to what improving schedule reliability really means beneath the surface.  On the airfreight side, Alex Lennane unpacks a market still under pressure. Capacity is slowly returning, but jet fuel shortages and high prices are keeping rates elevated and operations tight. We also look at flight cuts in Chicago, Kuehne + Nagel's latest earnings, and a deep dive into Cathay Cargo and the “cruel paradox” facing the carrier amid ongoing disruption.  From Suez strategy to fuel strain, this episode maps the key forces shaping freight right now. 

This week's News in Brief returns to the ongoing uncertainty in the Middle East, as a ceasefire extension fails to reopen the Strait of Hormuz - leaving carriers scrambling for alternatives.  Gavin van Marle breaks down the latest developments, from vessel incidents and rerouted services to softening spot rates into the Gulf and the growing role of land-side solutions.   We also look at early Q1 port data from Rotterdam and Antwerp-Bruges, and what it reveals about underlying demand - as well as the bigger question hanging over the market: is overcapacity starting to bite?  Later in the episode, Rotate's Jonathan Mellink joins to unpack the airfreight picture. Capacity is beginning to return in the Gulf, but unevenly, as airlines chase higher yields and redeploy lift across stronger lanes. Meanwhile, fuel shortages and rising costs are forcing tough operational decisions, adding further volatility to an already unpredictable market.  From Hormuz to hub capacity, this episode connects the key pressure points shaping freight right now. 

In a world where global trade is still growing but disruption is constant, traditional supply chain models are starting to show their limits. Built for scale and efficiency, “one-size-fits-all” logistics no longer reflects the very different risks faced by industries today. In this episode, DP World COO Beat Simon explains why supply chains need to be designed around specific sectors - and what it means to “orchestrate trade” rather than simply move cargo.With specific examples of retail and healthcare verticals, he shares how small changes in routing and handling can bring products quicker to market, increase visibility, extend shelf life, reduce waste and protect margins  - offering a practical example of how logistics is becoming more tailored, integrated and value-driven. Listen now to hear all about how DP World is utilising its Trade Platform 'toolbox' to tailor supply chains in an increasingly volatile market!

This week's News in Brief takes stock of a fragile pause in Middle East tensions, as the US-Iran ceasefire enters its second week. But while the Strait of Hormuz remains open, uncertainty still hangs over global supply chains - and the impact on both ocean and air freight is far from resolved. Charlotte Goldstone is joined by Drewry's director of supply chain advisory Chantal McRoberts to break down the latest on container shipping, including scenario planning for how long the conflict could last, and what that means for capacity, rates and contract negotiations. Alex Lennane brings the airfreight update, with markets showing signs of stabilisation rather than recovery. Capacity is returning in some regions, but fuel costs, disruption and uneven demand are keeping rates elevated and unpredictable.  Also in this episode: what China's revised Maritime Code could mean for international shipping contracts, and a long-awaited step forward in the US tariff refund process - though key questions remain unanswered.  From geopolitics to pricing pressure, this episode unpacks a market still navigating uncertainty - even as tensions temporarily ease. Have your say on the state of AI in the supply chain industry here! 

After a two-week break, News in Brief returns with a major geopolitical development at the top of the agenda: a fragile two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran, reopening the Strait of Hormuz - at least for now. But with fresh attacks still reported and negotiations only just beginning, uncertainty remains high across global supply chains. Gavin van Marle breaks down what this means for ocean shipping, from disrupted services and carrier pullbacks to the big question: will freight rates fall, or stay elevated amid ongoing risk and operational uncertainty? We're also joined by Aevean's Head of Consulting, Maarten Wormer, to explore how the airfreight market is reacting, from shifting capacity and routing decisions to whether any sense of normal seasonality is returning in a market shaped by constant disruption. With war risk surcharges, volatile fuel costs and unanswered questions around future transits, this episode unpacks what the ceasefire really means for shippers, and why stability may still be some way off.

This week, we unpack the latest developments in the Middle East and what a continued disruption means for global supply chains.  Host Charlotte Goldstone is joined by Freightos' head of research, Judah Levine, for a data-driven look at how ongoing conflict, airspace closures, and shipping reroutes are reshaping both air and ocean freight markets. With Gulf carriers under pressure, we explore the extent of the air cargo capacity squeeze and what it's doing to rates across key lanes.  On the ocean side, the picture is more nuanced. Despite disruption concerns — from Hormuz risks to fuel price volatility — rate increases haven't surged as sharply as expected. So what's actually happening beneath the surface?  Later, Gavin van Marle joins the conversation to break down emerging supply chain patterns, including shifting trade routes, the growing role of alternative hubs like Jeddah, and the broader balance between supply, demand, and geopolitical uncertainty.  Plus: the latest premium stories and what's been moving the market this week all in just 20 minutes.  

Escalating tensions in the Middle East are once again creating uncertainty for global supply chains. In this episode, host Charlotte Goldstone is joined by Marco Forgione, director general of the UK's Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade, to discuss the latest developments in the conflict and what they could mean for global trade flows, oil prices and supply chain resilience. They also look at tariff developments and whether shippers are changing their strategies in response. Charlotte is then joined by Alex Lennane, publisher of The Loadstar, to run through the latest airfreight developments, including airspace disruptions across the Middle East, tightening capacity and rising fuel costs. Plus, a two-day cockpit crew strike across the Lufthansa Group and the latest twist in the ongoing Panama ports dispute involving Cosco, Maersk and MSC. Finally, Peter Sand, chief analyst at Xeneta, shares the latest data on ocean freight spot rates and explains how geopolitical tensions and capacity shifts are shaping the market. He also offers advice for shippers and forwarders navigating an increasingly volatile freight environment. Hear all the important points of last week's supply chain news in just over 20 minutes!

Global supply chains are once again navigating turbulent waters. In this episode, we break down the immediate logistics fallout from the escalating conflict in the Middle East – from the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and vessels turning back mid-voyage, to collapsing air cargo capacity as Gulf airspace shuts down. What could this mean for freight rates, fuel markets, and global capacity? Charlotte Goldstone is joined by Alex Lennane to unpack the biggest stories of the week, including the early impacts on ocean and air freight, the legal debate around force majeure, and the latest developments on US tariff refunds. Later, Gavin van Marle checks in from TPM in Long Beach with the key themes dominating conversations at the industry's biggest gathering.All this plus much more, in just 20 minutes!

Last week's news of the US Supreme Court ruling striking down Trump's IEEPA tariffs has sent shockwaves through global supply chains but now comes the hard part: getting your money back. In this episode, we unpack the fallout of the tariff revocation. With potentially $100bn–$300bn in duties up for refund, the process is already shaping up to be complex, litigation-heavy and politically fraught. We discuss the emerging secondary market for tariff refund claims, why some SMEs are selling their rights for cents on the dollar and what FedEx's landmark legal move could mean for other corporates seeking repayment. Ocean spot rates remain muted amid the Chinese New Year lull, but could a restocking surge send transpac rates soaring? With carriers eyeing March GRIs of up to $3,000 and early signals pointing to higher 2026 contract rates, we examine what tariff reversal could mean for capacity, pricing and negotiations at TPM. Plus, a look into the current dynamics shaping the air freight market, weather disruptions at major US hubs, Wistech earnings, and much much more, all in just 20 minutes!

The Loadstar team unpacks a busy week in supply chain and logistics, in less than 20 minutes! This episode, Alex Lennane discusses her exclusive on DSV's reported switch away from CargoWise that sparked industry-wide debate last week. She and Charlotte Goldstone raise fresh questions about TMS loyalty and divulge the hot topics at Manifest. Is this the beginning of a systems shake-up across forwarding? Meanwhile, Gavin van Marle speaks on Hapag-Lloyd's reported $4.2bn bid for Zim and details how it could reshape alliance dynamics and redraw the competitive map in container shipping. Add in a long-awaited decision on tariff legality from the US Supreme Court, soaring blank sailings from CNY capacity cuts, warnings of a looming transpacific rate war, shifts in air cargo capacity, and much much more. If you need a refresher of the news ahead of a new week, plus a reminder of what could be still to come, this is the podcast for you.

Global container shipping had a rollercoaster year in 2025, and the numbers tell a fascinating story. In this episode of The Loadstar Podcast, host Charlotte Goldstone is joined by CEO of Container Trades Satistics (CTS) Nigel Pusey and The Loadstar's managing editor Gavin van Marle to break down the biggest shifts in volumes, pricing and trade lanes over the past year. From surging intra-Asia and Far East–Europe growth to a sharp decline on the transpacific, the trio unpack how tariffs, geopolitics and the China+1 strategy reshaped global flows. They dive into why freight rates fell nearly 20% year-on-year despite strong demand, where peak season really showed up, and how secondary trades quietly stole the spotlight. Plus, there's a scorecard moment as past predictions are put to the test, and some bold new forecasts are made for 2026 that may or may not age well. Data-driven, opinionated and refreshingly honest, this is essential listening for anyone trying to make sense of today's container markets. 

Earnings season is in full swing, and the numbers are telling a story. This week on News in Brief, The Loadstar team break down Maersk's Q4 and DSV's Schenker-fuelled growth, plus the job cuts across both companies.  Alex Lennane also details a tech comment in DSV's earnings call that's quietly rattled the freight forwarding world.  The episode also tracks falling ocean rates, firmer air freight prices, rising European road contracts, and fresh questions over when ships will really return to Suez.   Add in Panama port drama, looming parcel fees, Chinese New Year pressures and a hint of Manifest gossip, and you've got a lot to catch up on. 

Global trade runs on one essential ingredient: access to capital. Yet for millions of businesses, particularly SMEs in emerging markets, trade finance remains complex and out of reach. In this episode of the Loadstar Podcast, host Charlotte Goldstone is joined by Sinan Ozcan, senior executive officer and board director at DP World Trade Finance, to unpack how trade finance really works, and why it matters more than ever.Since launching in 2021, DP World Trade Finance has mobilised over $1.6 billion in working capital and partnered with more than 30 financial institutions, reshaping how trade is funded by embedding finance directly into DP World's global ports and logistics ecosystem. Mr Ozcan draws on more than 25 years of experience across banking, export credit, logistics, and trade finance to explain: What the global trade finance gap actually is and why it's been growing How real-time logistics data and cargo visibility can reduce risk and unlock funding Why SMEs struggle most to access capital, and how embedded finance helps How DP World mitigates fraud, collateral, and credit risk The role of free zones and supply chain infrastructure in enabling trade If you've ever been confused by trade finance or wondered how data, logistics, and capital can come together to unlock global trade, listen now! 

This week's News in Brief tracks a fragile balance across global shipping. Fresh investment into CMA CGM's terminal portfolio highlights carriers' long-term bets, just as renewed Houthi threats underline how uncertain a return to the Suez Canal remains and why Cape of Good Hope routings are still propping up today's capacity balance. Weather disruption across Europe and the US adds another layer of pressure, while earnings updates from UPS and others reveal the ongoing fallout from restructuring, fleet changes and weakening demand. Gavin van Marle unpacks the latest spot rate movements as the pre–Chinese New Year rush fades and carriers begin discounting to fill ships. Alex Lennane brings updates from air freight and overland transport, including storm impacts, aircraft retirements and fresh questions around rail consolidation in North America. Plus, a look at one of the few bright spots of the week: a new EU–India trade agreement that could signal a rare shift towards freer trade. From Red Sea risk to rate wars, this episode lays out what matters now and what to watch next.

In this week's episode, The Loadstar team explores mounting pressure across shipping, logistics tech and inland transport.   As talk of a return to the Suez Canal continues to swing back and forth, carriers, ports and insurers are all weighing up the risks and potential fallout once mass transits resume. Gavin van Marle unpacks what a Suez comeback could mean for North European and Mediterranean ports.  Alex Lennane joins to take a deeper look at forwarders rethinking their reliance on CargoWise after its controversial pricing overhaul. Are there real alternatives - or is WiseTech's grip on the market as tight as it seems?   They also examine fresh hurdles facing Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern's proposed rail merger, after regulators rejected their initial submission, and what that means for overland freight in the US.  Plus, updates on FedEx's LTL spin-off, early signs of a “reckoning” for ocean carriers amid excess capacity, first glimpses of alliance networks for 2026, and the latest movements in ocean and air freight rates.  From software shockwaves to shifting trade routes, this episode connects the dots across a fast-changing logistics landscape. 

This week on the Loadstar News in Brief, Charlotte Goldstone is joined by Alex Lennane and Gavin van Marle to break down a packed week in global supply chain news. From cooling container spot rates and firmer air cargo pricing to the latest twists in the US tariff saga, we examine what's really driving the market right now. The team also discusses growing signals of a return to the Suez Canal, airline M&A activity, and why geopolitical uncertainty continues to loom large over freight decisions. Plus, the team give insights from the BIFA Freight Service Awards and a look at what's coming up in the week ahead!

2026 gets off to a chilly start for global supply chains. Europe's major ports are hit by snow and ice, disrupting terminal operations and road and rail links. Meanwhile, carriers are pressing ahead with fresh terminal investments, and Cosco is quietly expanding its hinterland ambitions. Gavin van Marle breaks down what's happening on the ocean side as carriers front-load capacity ahead of Chinese New Year and rates settle after the festive period. Alex Lennane joins with a full airfreight reset, as seasonality returns, capacity shifts sharply and shippers weigh whether softening ocean rates could trigger a modal shift away from air. We also revisit the CargoWise pricing shake-up as the first invoices land and confusion grows, plus an update on the controversial US mega rail merger and what it could mean for inland transport.From winter disruption to strategic repositioning, this episode sets the tone for the year ahead in freight.

Join The Loadstar team as they round up the hot topics of 2025 and look forward to what might be coming up in 2026.   They detail what one word and song they would use to summarise this year's antics, plus their winners and losers of all that has transpired in the last 12 months.   This podcast recaps forwarding woes and wins, carrier ambitions, ship fires, AI, ecommerce, trade shifts and much much more. Plus, each of The Loadstar journalists give their bold prediction on what to look out for next year.  So, sit back and relax as we remind you of all the major events that shaped supply-chains in 2025.  

Coming up in this episode: container volumes are rising but prices are still falling, so what's really driving the disconnect between demand and rates? We look at fresh CTS data, the role of China in reshaping freight buying behaviour, and why overcapacity isn't showing up where you might expect. We'll also unpack new ecommerce handling fees being introduced in parts of Europe and why the air cargo industry says they risk distorting established trade flows. Alex Lennane brings the latest on whether the so-called air cargo “mini-peak” still has legs and why AI shipments could become one of the highest-yield cargoes heading into 2026. Plus, pressure is mounting on ZIM's board as shareholders push for change, WiseTech faces growing backlash over its new CargoWise pricing model, and we look at what a potential US tariff “vacuum” could mean for transpacific trade. Join The Loadstar's journalists as they analyse all that, plus rates, geopolitics and forwarder fallout.

After weeks of disruption, Southeast Asia's ports are slowly reopening following historic floods - but delays and backlogs still plague regional supply chains. In more positive news, seafarers from the MV Eternity C have finally been released, and carriers are starting to eye a return to the Suez Canal, with the Ocean Alliance restarting transits and CMA CGM signalling confidence with naval escorts and new services.  Meanwhile in the US, importers like Costco are racing to file refund claims ahead of a potential Supreme Court ruling that could overturn tariffs, raising the prospect of a lengthy and chaotic reimbursement process. And in the tech world, WiseTech's surprise CargoWise overhaul has triggered industry outcry, with logistics providers accusing the software giant of rolling out major changes without warning right at the height of peak season.  Charlotte Goldstone, Gavin van Marle and Alex Lennane bring you the week's essential freight headlines in one short and snappy podcast.  

This week's episode dives into the growing contrasts across global freight. In ocean shipping, Maersk has pushed back against claims of an imminent Suez Canal return — despite pressure from the Suez Canal Authority — leaving carriers and insurers guessing when routes might reopen.   Meanwhile, strikes in Belgium, ship fires in US ports, and record-low scrapping levels add to Europe's congestion woes, as MSC piles on more transatlantic tonnage and Hapag-Lloyd invests in new feeder vessels.  Gavin van Marle unpacks the latest on ocean rates and why carriers are still betting big on capacity despite falling demand, while Alex Lennane brings updates from the air, from the return of UPS and USPS's final-mile partnership to fears that the UK's de minimis delay could turn it into an ecommerce “dumping ground”.  Plus, with Thanksgiving and Cyber Monday driving a short-lived “mini peak”, we look at how global airfreight demand is holding up, how Asia is powering through flooding disruptions, and whether Western Global's struggles could mark the end of the MD-11 era.  It's a busy week across air, sea and logistics — and this episode connects all the dots.     

In this episode of The Loadstar Podcast we take you inside one of the most dynamic and rapidly evolving regions in global trade: Africa. Host and news reporter Charlotte Goldstone is joined by Mohammed Akoojee CEO & MD of DP World Sub-Saharan Africa. Together, they unpack why Africa is emerging as one of the most important players in global logistics and what still needs to happen to unlock its full potential. Mr Akoojee reveals why Africa's role in global trade is accelerating, the critical role infrastructure plays and where DP World is investing billions to aid Africa's logistics boom and benefit local communities. He also explains why intra-African trade lags behind cross-border trade in Europe and what is needed to drive this, plus gives listeners a glimpse into what the future of Africa's trade could look like once the Red Sea crisis and trade wars are resolved.  So, if you're curious about the rise of new consumer markets and how better logistics can transform a continent, this is an episode you don't want to miss!

In this episode of News in Brief, The Loadstar team delves into the latest developments in the world of tariffs and refund issues, rail mergers, ecommerce and ocean rate dynamics.  In under 20 minutes, our award-winning journalists provide insights into how these topics - and many more -  could affect supply chains and consumer prices.  So, tune in now for a comprehensive overview of the week's most significant shifts, and to hear what to keep an eye on for the week ahead!  All the stories mentioned in this episode can be found on The Loadstar's website.

New CTS data shows just how deeply tariffs have hit US trade and Indian airfreight volumes, as Southeast Asia surges ahead under the China + 1 strategy. The Loadstar team unpacks the numbers — and what they mean for rates, resilience, and rerouted cargo. As the US Supreme Court takes on Trump's reciprocal tariff policy, tension builds over whether refunds will ever materialize. Meanwhile, signs of peace in the Red Sea have carriers eyeing a return to Suez — but with overcapacity already looming, could that just make the freight picture murkier? And what will this mean for airfreight? Plus, we look at booming trade through Southeast Asia, MSC's fruit-fueled pivot to South Africa, and the EU's new vote to end de minimis. All that and the best of Loadstar Premium — from California trucking chaos to “Wonder Jim” at Union Pacific — in this packed global round-up.

This week, the shipping industry hits new highs and new headaches.   MSC's record 7m teu fleet cements its dominance, while Maersk eyes fresh megaship orders amid warnings of a looming capacity glut that could stretch to 2030. Gavin van Marle breaks down the latest rate moves, the growing talk of rate wars, and what Q3 results reveal about carriers' financial standing  While in air cargo, Alex Lennane reports from TIACA's Air Cargo Forum in Abu Dhabi with exclusive insights from Etihad Cargo.  She also digs into Europe's latest ecommerce crackdown with France grounding Shein imports and Cainiao pausing expansion in Liège, plus how a prolonged US government shutdown could soon clip flight capacity.  From ocean overcapacity to airfreight uncertainty, this week's episode keeps you up to date with the latest news across global logistics. 

It's been a week of turmoil — and tentative relief — across global trade. Hurricane Melissa brought chaos to the Caribbean but spared Jamaica's vital Kingston terminal, while in Asia, the fallout from Dhaka's cargo village fire continues to snarl Bangladesh's garment exports. Meanwhile, hopes for Red Sea stability were dashed as Israel resumed airstrikes in Gaza.  Host and news reporter Charlotte Goldstone brings you the most important points of these stories to get you up to date with the news ahead of a new week.   And there's a flicker of good news: Washington and Beijing have agreed to suspend their port call fees for a year, softening trade tensions and cutting “fentanyl tariffs” by 10%. Gavin van Marle joins to unpack the toll tariffs have already taken on US port volumes and whether rate rises can last after weeks of GRI-driven recovery.  Alex Lennane steps in to discuss the latest in air cargo, from Chicago Rockford's new partnership with Liège to the early signs of the Christmas peak and a new US plan to ban belly cargo from Mexico City. She then chats to Ms Goldstone about UPS's mixed earnings,   All that, plus a look ahead to a pivotal week as the US Supreme Court tackles tariffs and The Loadstar team hits the road for the Air Cargo Forum in Abu Dhabi. 

In this epsiode of news in brief, hear how the one-year delay to the IMOs net-zero measures has set the stage for conflicting national rules, and how hopes of a return to Suez Canal transits threaten to swamp Europe's ports with redirected cargo.  Gavin van Marle breaks down whether recent GRIs are holding and what the first Q3 earnings reports from forwarding giants reveal about a volatile year.   Then, Alex Lennane joins to unpack air cargo's peak-season signals, the continuing fallout from the US de minimis exemption, and a spate of aviation incidents that underscore the sector's safety challenges.  If you want a snapshot of all the goings-on in supply chains and where the news might be headed next, this is the podcast for you.   

The dust is only just beginning to settle in Europe's ports after last week's strikes — but the disruption is far from over. Host Charlotte Goldstone updates you on the ripple effects in Antwerp, Bruges and Rotterdam, before turning to the week's biggest story: a tense MEPC84 meeting where the IMO's net-zero framework faced an unexpected twist of US threats of sanctions agaisnt countries voting “yes”.  Meanwhile, Gavin van Marle chats about China expanding its own tit-for-tat port fees, how the alliances are fighting for capacity dominance, and why the market is bracing for softer contract rates despite a looming November GRI push.  In air freight, Alex Lennane joins to dissect UPS's parcel backlog meltdown, Flexport's AI-driven fix for logistics reliability, and a cyberattack that put DSV in the spotlight lats week. Plus, Ms Goldstone shares insights from Aviation Connect in Copenhagen.   If you're following the global freight news cycle, this episode connects all the dots ahead of whatever this week has in store...  

Recent supply chain news has been all about disruption and adaptation. Europe's biggest ports are hit by strikes, causing chaos in Rotterdam, Antwerp and Zeebrugge, while carriers raise charges at Chittagong and brace for new US port fees under the escalating trade war. Gavin van Marle breaks down how container volumes held up in August despite the tariff turmoil, and why some trade lanes are booming while others falter.  In air freight, Alex Lennane joins to unpack the ripple effects of the US government shutdown, a visa fee hike that could squeeze logistics workforces, and how forwarders are seizing opportunities in a still-strong ecommerce sector.  If you want the week's essential supply chain headlines, expert analysis and a glimpse of what's coming next, this is one you won't want to miss.   

From tariffs to lawsuits, this week's episode is packed with supply chain drama.  Host Charlotte Goldstone kicks off the episode with an update on another wave of US tariffs — a move that could drag transpacific rates even lower.   Gavin van Marle breaks down the latest freight rate moves, and why China's Arctic shortcut isn't tempting the likes of MSC.  Then, Alex Lennane joins to unpack the air freight story. A US government shutdown is already causing delays and disruptions for cargo, while new sanctions on Mexico's aviation sector are rattling cross-border trade — and Europe's regulators are firmly in Washington's sights too.  We also dive into the legal frontlines: Flexport's courtroom battle with Freightmate is heating up, and Maersk is staring down a class action over its pension plan. Plus, a few exclusive hints at what's coming up on The Loadstar and what's been on The Loadstar premium.   If you're struggling to keep on top of constant supply-chain updates across modes, The Loadstar's News in Brief will neatly round up all you might have missed from last week!   It's only 16 minutes... Listen now!